Molecule Quiz: Carbon and Oxygen Compounds

Study Notes

Chemical Compounds and Ions

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): A colorless, odorless gas produced during respiration and combustion; essential for photosynthesis.
Water (H₂O): A vital solvent for life, covering about 71% of Earth's surface; essential for biological processes.
Ethanol (C₂H₅OH): An alcohol used as a recreational beverage and industrial solvent; produced through fermentation.
Oxygen (O₂): Necessary for cellular respiration; a diatomic molecule that makes up about 21% of Earth's atmosphere.
Methane (CH₄): A colorless, odorless gas; the main component of natural gas, important as an energy source.
Ferric Oxide (Fe₂O₃): Commonly known as rust; a compound resulting from the oxidation of iron.
Copper Oxide (CuO): A black solid used in various chemical processes; it can act as a semiconductor or catalyst.
Carbon (C): A non-metal that is a fundamental building block of life; found in all organic compounds.
Copper (Cu): A reddish metal with excellent electrical conductivity; widely used in electrical wiring and plumbing.
Magnesium Oxide (MgO): A white solid mineral; used as a refractory material and in dietary supplements.
Magnesium (Mg): An alkaline earth metal essential for many biological processes, especially in plants.
Silver Ion (Ag⁺): A positively charged ion with antibacterial properties; used in medical devices and water purification.
Silver (Ag): A precious metal known for its high conductivity and reflectivity; widely used in jewelry and electronics.
Hydroxide Ion (OH⁻): A negatively charged ion that plays a significant role in pH regulation and chemical reactions.
Potassium Hydroxide (KOH): A strong alkali used in soap making and as a drain cleaner.
Calcium Ion (Ca²⁺): An important ion in biological systems, especially in bones and cellular signaling.
Copper Ion (Cu²⁺): A two-plus charged ion involved in various enzymatic reactions and important for metabolism.
Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas produced from incomplete combustion; toxic at high concentrations.
Hydrogen (H₂): The lightest and most abundant element in the universe; essential for the formation of water and organic compounds.
Hydrochloric Acid (HCl): A strong acid produced in the stomach; used in various chemical processes and industrial applications.
Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄): A highly corrosive strong acid; widely used in batteries and industrial applications.
Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH): An organic acid that gives vinegar its sour taste; used as a food preservative and chemical reagent.
Hydrogen Ion (H⁺): A positively charged ion, crucial in acid-base chemistry; influences pH levels in solutions.
Chlorine (Cl₂): A greenish-yellow gas used as a disinfectant and in the production of various chemicals.
Chloride Ion (Cl⁻): A negatively charged ion that plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance and electrolyte levels.
Sulfate Ion (SO₄²⁻): A polyatomic ion involved in various biological and industrial processes; a component of some salts.
Acetate Ion (CH₃COO⁻): A negatively charged ion derived from acetic acid; involved in metabolic processes.
Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): A strong base commonly used in cleaning supplies, food preparation, and industrial processes.
Sodium Ion (Na⁺): Essential for nerve transmission and muscle contraction; a major electrolyte in the body.
Potassium Ion (K⁺): Important for heart function and cellular processes; helps regulate fluid balance.
Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂): A strong base used in construction and food processing; also known as slaked lime.